Knox Public Health has confirmed that a 90-yr. old Knox County man currently in Florida has died of COVID-19. David H. Waddell, was reported as the county’s fifth positive case on Wednesday.

“We are saddened to learn about the death of a Knox County resident due to COVID-19,” said Health Commissioner Julie Miller. “Even though it took place in another state, Knox County was his home and he has family and friends who live here.”

A Mount Vernon resident, Waddell had been in Florida since November. “His death emphasizes the reality of how dangerous COVID-19 is for our elderly population,” said Miller. “That's why it is more important than ever that every resident take appropriate measures to prevent and contain the spread of the virus.” (news release)